How does the protein hormone interleukin-3 regulate cell signalling in leukaemic cells?

Lead researcher

InstitutionThe University of Melbourne (2018-2019); St Vincent's Institute of Medical Research (2017-2018)

Tumour type:Leukaemia

Years funded2017-2019

What is the project?

This project studies the mechanism by which a protein hormone (interleukin-3) activates abnormal signalling in leukaemic cells. Our findings will allow the development of new approaches to target and disrupt leukaemic cell survival.

What are you trying to achieve?

We want to find out more about what causes leukaemia and develop a new treatment. This research will have implications for all people diagnosed with this type of cancer. Interleukin 3 (IL-3) plays an important role in promoting leukaemic cell growth and survival and is often involved in leukaemia relapse. Despite the central role played by IL-3 in blood cancer biology, little is known about how it contributes to cell growth and disease. Our study will use 3D structures of IL-3 to assess how the hormone controls signalling outcomes within the cell.

Cancer Council Victoria would like to acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which we live and work. We would also like to pay respect to the elders past and present and extend that respect to all other Aboriginal people.